COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — It was a sea of students at the Mortgage Solutions Financial Expo Center Tuesday.

Students were determined to learn more about career fields they’re interested in.

For others like Russell Middle School 8th grader Dulce Cantu, it’s a time to narrow down the options.

“I plan on doing something with volleyball, and then the Air Force, and then baking so, I’m kind of all over the place,” Cantu said.

School District 11 has been holding the career fair for four years now, but this is the first time they’ve partnered with D-49.

District leaders say it’s a chance for them to share the limited resources available.

“This really saves a lot of time, instead of looking it up and trying to see what is there. And it’s great to just see it here and to have people who are in it to explain better and what they like about it, and what they think of us,” said Horizon Middle School 8th grader Rebecca Reyes.

At least 75 vendors signed up to be a part of fair, all representing the academic core from stem, business, education, medical and more.

Each student, like Reyes, brought along a passport to mark where they’ve been.

“It’s cool to see the clubs, just to learn how they’re going to get into their careers and how if we want to, we can get into their high schools and get into the clubs that support us for our careers,” Reyes said.

“They’re young and they’re forming their ideas, so the hope is that this direct information from people who work in the industry can help clarify some of the questions they may have, and help them focus on exactly what kind of skills do they need for this, what should they be thinking about high school and college if they really want to pursue these career goals,” said Joan Sousa, volunteer services/classroom coordinator for D-11.

At least 2,500 students showed up Tuesday. Wednesday will be open to all high schoolers from both districts.